Mobile TV antenna and satellite dish installer

Homeowners who have cut cable, renters and older people who want local channels, and people whose dish has shifted after a storm.

A flat fee per installation or repair visit, plus extra for additional TV hookups, cable runs and signal amplifiers. Repeat work comes from referrals and storm-damage repairs.

• Comfortable on ladders and roofs
• Basic understanding of signal strength and cabling
• Friendly, clear communication with customers

• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire anyone
• Some states or cities require a low-voltage or contractor license, so check before you advertise
• Falls from ladders and roofs are a real risk, so use proper fall protection and skip jobs that feel unsafe
• Renters and HOA members may need landlord or HOA approval before you mount anything outside
• Avoid working near power lines

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your tools, ladders, safety equipment and stock of antennas and cabling. You work from your own vehicle, so premises costs are usually not a factor.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on how many jobs you take and your local demand. The low end assumes roughly 10 hours a week. Revenue is not profit.

Check whether your state or city requires a low-voltage or contractor license before you advertise. Also check general liability insurance, landlord or HOA approval for outdoor mounting, safe ladder and roof practice, and keeping clear of power lines.